Curaçao
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Visited: June
Type of Traveler: Couple
Vibe of Trip: Relaxing, Cultural
Traveler Details: Age Range: 20s | Food Preferences: Foodie + Local Cuisine Explorer | Travel Style: Slow traveler, Mid-budget, Ocean lover
First Impressions: Arrival in Willemstad
Landing in Willemstad, Curaçao after a smooth flight from Miami, I felt the shift almost instantly — that warm, laid-back Caribbean rhythm that welcomes you like an old friend. Customs was quick, easy, and straightforward, which set the tone for what turned out to be one of the most seamless travel experiences I’ve ever had.
We grabbed a taxi right outside the airport, and for just $40, we were driven directly to our hotel. The 30-minute ride? Honestly, one of the most scenic drives I’ve ever taken. Rolling hills, colorful homes, ocean peeks, and clear skies — it was the perfect preview of Curaçao’s beauty. Taxis here are safe, clean, and have fixed rates by zone, so no need to haggle or guess what you’re being charged.
The island’s energy is peaceful, gentle, and grounded. As a melanated traveler, I felt instantly safe and seen, something you don’t always feel in unfamiliar places.
Where I Stayed: Renaissance Wind Creek Resort & Casino
We checked into the Balcony Ocean View Room at the Renaissance Wind Creek Resort — and from the moment I slid open that balcony door and heard the waves, I knew I was exactly where I needed to be.
Located right next to the Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort, the hotel gave us easy access to shopping, dining, and history — all walkable and right on the water. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff was warm and helpful, making it easy to settle in and breathe after travel.
Travel Tip: Book the Ocean View Balcony Room. Sleeping to the sound of crashing waves? Unreal.
What I Loved: Food, Culture & Floating Bridges
We spent our first night taking it slow. After exploring the mall, we dined at Ceviche 91, a sushi and seafood spot with panoramic ocean views. I ordered the Mako Unagi Roll, and I still think about it. Fresh, layered with flavor, and perfectly plated — it was the best sushi I’ve had anywhere in the Caribbean.
Later, we strolled to the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, a floating bridge that connects the neighborhoods of Punda and Otrobanda. It opens regularly for ships to pass — and while it’s beautiful, it does move. If you get motion sick easily, walk fast or skip it altogether.
Even at night, the city felt safe and alive. The lights on the water, the breeze, and the soft buzz of music and laughter from open-air restaurants — it was magical.
The Tour That Changed Everything
The next day, we were picked up by the legendary Shue (@tourconshue on Instagram) from Around Curaçao Tours, and he gave us a full-day private experience I’ll never forget.
Stops on Our Curaçao Tour:
• Playa Piskado: Swam with wild sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Go to the deeper end of the pier to get clearer pictures and videos
• Shete Boka National Park: Black lava rocks and roaring blowholes
• Flamingo Sanctuary: Saw flamingos in their natural habitat
• Blue View Restaurant: My favorite lunch spot — with ocean views and grilled barracuda (yes, and it was delicious)
• Boka Patrick: Off-road adventure to a massive blowhole
• UNESCO Historic District of Punda: Strolling through colorful buildings dating back to the 1600s
• Curacao Liqueur Distillery: Optional tasting available
Book with Shue if you can. I’ve taken dozens of tours around the world, and he’s easily in my top 3 guides ever. Warm, knowledgeable, hilarious — a true gem.
Recovery Mode: Spa + Stillness
After that action-packed day, we needed rest. So we stayed in, soaked up the sun at the hotel pool, and booked poolside massages with Natural Blends Esthetics Spa at Rif Fort. 10/10 — highly recommend.
What I Wish I Knew
• The floating bridge opens often — if you’re short on time, plan around it.
• Driving across the island takes longer than expected — Curaçao is only 38 miles long, but don’t underestimate the winding roads.
• Currency: Most places take USD and debit/credit cards, but you might get change in Netherlands Antillean Guilders (ANG).
• Curaçao is out of the hurricane belt — so travel is great year-round with steady temps in the 80s.
Who This Trip Is Perfect For
• Solo travelers
• Melanated travelers (warmth, safety, and visibility were all felt)
• Couples seeking adventure + romance
• First-time travelers looking for beauty and ease
Everyone speaks Dutch, Spanish, English, and Papiamentu, so language isn’t a barrier. Locals were friendly, patient, and eager to help.
Final Travel Tips
• Use Airalo eSIM for affordable, no-hassle mobile data abroad
• Pack light layers and walkable shoes for day tours
• Try something new — like barracuda or other local dishes
• Stay oceanfront — and leave that balcony door open at night
I’ll be posting tour videos, food shots, hotel recaps, and behind-the-scenes from Curaçao on Instagram @mrglobalgq — come take a look.
